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Mungaab described the situation as “massive corruption” crippling the administration.

“Three thousand employees are on the Banadir Regional Administration payroll, but if you check today, fewer than 600 can be found working at the municipal headquarters,” Mungaab said during a meeting with Banadir staff on Saturday, August 9, 2025.

He added that his administration has been informed that some international aid previously received will soon be cut.

Mungaab stressed his desire for all employees to report to work, but acknowledged a major obstacle: many of those listed as municipal staff are not actually employed by the city.

Sources in the Banadir Administration’s Department of Labor told Kaab TV that ministers and senior government officials have added their children and spouses to the payroll despite them doing no work.

More than 1,600 individuals are reportedly living abroad yet still receive salaries from the Banadir Administration.

Kaab TV has learned that the list includes social media influencers of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, as well as relatives of the intelligence chief Mahad Salaad and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, none of whom reside in Somalia or perform any civil service duties.

This widespread payroll fraud is placing a heavy financial burden on the federal budget and could impact donor confidence.

International donors currently fund over 70% of Somalia’s federal budget, most of which goes to public sector salaries.

Donor Funding at Risk

Mungaab also warned that some international aid to the federal government will be cut by the end of this year.

“You know there is concern that in the coming years – or even by the end of this year – as I discussed with the Minister of Health, we cannot be certain donors will continue their support for the health sector. Therefore, it is important we take precautions now and take control of our own activities,” he said.

Somalia remains one of the most challenging countries in the world for prosecuting corruption, especially when it involves government officials, their relatives, or close associates.

According to Transparency International, Somalia ranks as the most corrupt country in the world.

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Cc: Speaker of the House of the People

Cc: Chair, Committee on Foreign Affairs

Cc: Prime Minister of Somalia

Cc: Minister of Foreign Affairs

Cc: Minister of Labor

Cc: Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to Somalia

Cc: UN ILO Liaison Office Geneva

Cc: All International Embassies – Somalia

Subject: Investigation into the Politicization of Somalia’s ILO Representation and Undermining of Bilateral Relations with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Your Excellency,

I am writing to you as a Member of Parliament and the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation to express deep alarm and initiate a formal inquiry into the events surrounding Somalia’s participation in the 113th International Labor Conference (ILC) in Geneva, and the co-filing of a politically motivated complaint against the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – our most important labor partner.

This act, orchestrated by Omar Faruk Osman with the active or passive support of several officials within your government, has undermined a landmark labor agreement that promised to offer tens of thousands of Somali youth legal employment opportunities abroad. Instead of upholding this historic breakthrough, members of your administration deliberately sabotaged it in order to extort political or financial gain, in violation of Somalia’s national interest and international obligations.

In February 2025, Somalia signed a legally binding labor agreement with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – an agreement that could have transformed the lives of our unemployed youth. It aimed to:

• Provide legal, protected employment for thousands of Somali workers
• Increase foreign remittances and economic stability
• Reduce illegal migration and human trafficking
• Deepen strategic cooperation between Somalia and Saudi Arabia

However, a small ring of enablers – including Omar Faruk Osman, the Minister of Labor, the State Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Somali Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, and figures within Villa Somalia and the Office of the Prime Minister – sought to derail this progress. By co-filing a formal complaint at the ILO against Saudi Arabia without any parliamentary mandate or interagency review, they acted against Somalia’s official diplomatic position and sabotaged a rare opportunity for youth empowerment.

The submission of this complaint constitutes a direct violation of:

• The Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties (pacta sunt servanda), requiring Somalia to honor bilateral commitments Somalia’s February 2025 Labor Agreement with Saudi Arabia
• The constitutional framework, which mandates that such international actions must be subject to oversight and reflect national interest

Most disturbingly, the delegation was led or heavily influenced by Omar Faruk Osman, who is under credible investigation for visa fraud, human trafficking, and the abuse of official representation. To allow such an individual to serve as the face of Somalia’s labor diplomacy is a national disgrace.

At the 113th International Labor Conference (ILC) held in Geneva in 2025 – the Federal Government of Somalia participated controversially in a campaign accusing the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia of violations against migrant workers. A central figure in this campaign was Omar Faruk Osman, Secretary General of FESTU and an official member of Somalia’s delegation to the conference. Omar Faruk worked closely with Joel Akhator Odigie, Secretary General of ITUC-Africa, to escalate international pressure on Saudi Arabia – specifically alleging issues such as non-payment of wages, passport confiscations, and forced debt bondage of workers – despite the fact that Somalia and Saudi Arabia had recently signed bilateral labor and development cooperation agreements.

This action triggered widespread concern and criticism across diplomatic and development circles. Many have questioned why the Government of Somalia, which had just entered into constructive labor and aid partnerships with Saudi Arabia, would allow members of its official delegation to actively participate in a campaign targeting the very country it had signed those agreements with.

Somalia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs has yet to issue an official statement on the matter, further fueling speculation about who truly represents Somalia’s foreign policy at the international level. This silence has been interpreted as either evidence of internal confusion within the government or the possibility that the campaign was driven by individuals representing personal or factional political interests rather than the national position.

There is also growing concern that Somalia’s decision to support the ITUC-Africa campaign reflects a shift in foreign policy alignment – with Somalia appearing to move closer to Turkey while distancing itself from its traditional Gulf allies such as Saudi Arabia. The silence of State Minister and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is seen by some observers as a calculated tactic to avoid open diplomatic confrontation with Saudi Arabia, while Omar Faruk uses the campaign as a covert political message. Regardless of intent, this strategy is highly risky, as Saudi Arabia has historically been one of Somalia’s most important development partners, contributing over $100 million to projects in water, education, and rural development.

Accordingly, I call for the following immediate actions:

• Immediate suspension of Omar Faruk Osman from all international platforms and domestic labor representation
• Full disclosure of Somalia’s ILO engagement and legal basis for the complaint against Saudi Arabia
• Parliamentary summons for all officials involved in the ILO delegation and complaint filing
• Official diplomatic apology to Saudi Arabia reaffirming Somalia’s commitment to the labor agreement
• Independent audit and criminal investigation into the allegations of visa fraud, human trafficking, and bribery connected to labor brokerage schemes facilitated through the Ministry of Labor and Omar Faruk Osman.

Unfortunately, the foreign policy of the current regime at Villa Somalia – driven by a small inner circle intoxicated by greed – has lost all semblance of national strategy or principle. Their decisions, made not by long-term vision but by the bribe of the hour, the payoff of the day, resemble the logic of political prostitution, choosing whichever foreign partner offers the highest immediate reward rather than protecting the long-term interests of the Somali people.

Nowhere is this shameful behavior more evident than in the betrayal of the labor agreement between Somalia and Saudi Arabia – a historic opportunity to give unemployed Somali youth a second chance at life. Instead of championing this breakthrough, they sabotaged it to enrich themselves, deliberately placing self-interest above the hopes of an entire generation. It is not foreign policy; it is organized betrayal under the disguise of diplomacy.

Your Excellency, the time has come to choose. Somalia cannot afford to mortgage its sovereignty and credibility for the selfish gains of a few. The youth of this nation deserve better. Parliament will act to hold all those responsible to account, and we expect your office to do the same.

Respectfully,

—

Dr. Abdillahi Hashi Abib – BA, MA, MASc, Ph.D
Member of Foreign Affairs Committee, Federal Republic of Somalia the House of People

Mogadishu, Somalia

MP- HOP #201 Awdal Region and Gebileh District
Leader of the Accountability and Transparency Caucus of the House of People
E: abdillahi.abib@parliament.gov.so / dheemaal@yahoo.com
W: + 1-571-436-7586 M: + 252-6108-22469

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The criticism came at the close of a three-day opposition conference in Mogadishu, which included consultations with civil society groups, women, elders, and business leaders.

In a strongly worded statement, the Opposition Forum warned that the current trajectory of political decision-making under President Hassan Sheikh risks destabilizing Somalia’s recent security gains.

“This is a dangerous turn that could undo years of hard-won progress,” the statement read.

Allegations of Partisan Politics and Marginalization

The forum accused the president of marginalizing key federal member states—particularly Puntland and Jubaland—while promoting loyal administrations in South West, Galmudug, and Hirshabelle.

These regional leaders, the statement noted, have recently joined the president’s Union for Peace and Development Party (JSP), in what opposition leaders call a coordinated move to consolidate power.

“The illegal term extensions, partisan alignments, and dismantling of the National Consultative Council (NCC) point to President Hassan Sheikh’s authoritarian ambitions and a strategy to engineer a one-man election,” the communiqué asserted.

The group also condemned corruption, land grabbing, and the alleged misuse of public resources.

They raised alarm over secretive deals signed with foreign companies and governments involving Somalia’s natural resources—including oil, minerals, and fisheries—which they claim have enriched a small elite closely tied to the president’s family.

Press Freedom and Civil Liberties

The opposition expressed grave concern over increasing restrictions on press freedom. They cited a recent spike in journalist arrests and equipment seizures, particularly targeting reporters covering the controversial forced voter registration in Mogadishu.

“These actions are unacceptable and only worsen the already precarious safety of Somali journalists,” the statement added.

Calling for a return to constitutional order, the forum denounced the unlawful amendments allegedly made by the president to the Provisional Federal Constitution.

They urged the formation of an independent electoral commission and demanded inclusive, transparent elections.

“We call for an urgent national dialogue involving all stakeholders—federal leaders, state authorities, and opposition figures—to steer the country away from political collapse and the threat of extremism,” the leaders said.

Call for Renewed Dialogue with Somaliland

The group also urged a restart of stalled talks between Somalia and Somaliland, which broke down after Somaliland suspended negotiations.

The move followed what Hargeisa viewed as provocations by Mogadishu, including Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre’s visit to Las Anod.

The joint statement was endorsed by a host of influential Somali political figures, including: Former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, Former Parliament Speakers Sharif Hassan Sheikh Aden and Mohamed Mursal Abdirahman, Former Prime Ministers Abdi Farah Shirdon, Mohamed Hussein Roble, Hassan Ali Khaire, and Omar Abdirashid Sharmarke, MP Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame and MP Abdikadir Osoble Ali, Former Foreign Minister Ahmed Issa Awad, Former Ministers Abdinur Sheikh Mohamed, Abdullahi Abukar Haji, and Dahir Mohamud Geelle (who recently resigned as a presidential advisor).

The Mogadishu conference took place amid growing political tensions, with the opposition warning that without course correction, Somalia risks sliding back into authoritarianism and instability.

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The UK announced an additional $3.9 million contribution to the United Nations-administered SSF Trust Fund.

The Trust Fund, managed by the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS), currently supports 18,900 personnel from the Somali National Army and Somali Police Force.

In 2024 alone, UK funding enabled UNSOS to deliver 6,000 tons of food rations and 2,000 tons of diesel fuel to the SSF, along with providing casualty evacuations (CASEVAC) for hundreds of wounded personnel.

The latest contribution will ensure continued delivery of this vital logistical support.

UNSOS requires a minimum of $2 million per month to support the planned increase in SSF personnel from 18,900 to 20,900, as outlined in UN Security Council Resolution 2767 (2024).

Additional funding is urgently needed, especially for UNSOS’s life-saving CASEVAC operations during ongoing military campaigns.

The UK reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Somalia’s security transition, emphasizing the importance of enabling UNSOS to continue its essential support to the SSF.

Outgoing British Ambassador to Somalia, Mike Nithavrianakis, says the contribution shows The UK is a firm friend of Somalia and at this vital moment.

“I’m proud to be announcing further funding to support the fight against violent extremists. I encourage other partners to contribute to the UNSOS SSF Trust Fund, to support the brave Somali Security Forces and to ensure a safe and secure future for all Somalis and the region,” Nithavrianakis said.

Somalia’s National Security Advisor, Hussein Sheikh Ali, also emphasized the importance of the Trust Fund and the government’s commitment to using it responsibly.

“The logistical support provided by UNSOS has been significant for the Somali Security Forces, particularly in CASEVAC and MEDEVAC. We urge donors to increase funding in 2025 as the FGS continues to generate new forces,” said Mr. Ali.

Theft of food and fuel

Somalia has a history of aid diversion, including theft of food and fuel intended for its security forces, provided by international partners.

Last year, the U.S. government cut rations and fuel support to the elite Danab forces after Washington discovered that supplies had been misappropriated.

However, Somalia’s National Security Advisor, Hussein Sheikh Ali, says the government is committed to doing better this time.

“I reiterate the Somali government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and adherence to international standards in the use of these resources,” said Hussein Sheikh Ali.

The Head of UNSOS, Aisa Kirabo Kacyira, praised the UK’s continued support while the air evacuation remains vital for injured soldiers.

“I remain grateful to the UK Government for its steadfast support of the SSF during the ongoing transition. CASEVAC operations have saved lives and boosted the morale of the Somali forces. It is crucial to have a reliable, predictable Trust Fund, and I urge partners to also contribute as we support Somalia’s security transition,” said Kacyira.

This latest UK contribution builds on earlier funding, bringing the total UK support to more than $50 million since 2021. In February 2025, the UK contributed £5 million, following earlier donations of £5 million in September 2024, £2.75 million in April 2024, £5 million in January 2024, and £5 million in December 2023.

The funding comes at a time of growing concern, as Al-Shabaab militants have advanced toward Mogadishu, the Somali capital. The group has begun encircling the city, raising fears of a possible assault and the potential for the capital to fall under militant control.

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In effect, this is a practice that has become a means of funding urban modernization and development, creating a new class of oligarchs while it displaces vulnerable communities and erodes public trust in government institutions.

As opposition leaders, lawmakers, and citizens raise alarm, the international community must take note: Somalia’s fragile recovery is at risk of being derailed by corruption, inequality, and the unchecked privatization of public assets.

Somalia has some of the largest expanses of uninhabited land in the Horn of Africa. These include public lands that were once military camps, agricultural fields, and areas reserved for community development-a treasure for a country trying to get up after so many years of war.

However, all these lands were being sold to a handful of rich people, often referred to as “oligarchs,” in non-transparent deals without accountability.

The government argues that the proceeds of these sales would go to finance modernization of cities and covering infrastructure projects. Yet, there is scant evidence to support this assertion.

Opposition leaders, including former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire, and MP Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame, accused the administration of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of violating Somalia’s constitution and legal framework by auctioning public property without oversight.

In a joint statement issued in early January, they warned that the uncontrolled sale of public lands risks entrenching corruption, exacerbating inequality, and undermining the rule of law.

Forced Evictions and Displacement

The human cost of these land sales is already becoming apparent. In many cases, these public lands have been home to civilians for years and sometimes generations. Now they are being forcibly evicted without compensation or alternative housing. The evictions are carried out with little warning and no due process.

These acts are a serious breach of public confidence for a country that is just struggling to regain its footing from war and abject poverty.

Displacement of vulnerable communities is not only a humanitarian issue but also a source of social unrest. As more and more people get displaced and their livelihoods affected, so does the threat of protests, violence, and further instability rise.

But even more disturbingly so in a country where the government’s legitimacy has already been weakened, and a region where an extremist group, Al-Qaeda-affiliated Al-Shabaab, is still out to wreak its terror.

A Financial Crisis in the Making

Equally damaging, the land sales have highlighted severe flaws in Somalia’s financial sector. There are reports that several Somali banks face collapse after being lent depositors’ money to buy public lands which the government is selling off.

This reckless act, termed “unlawful” by more than 100 federal lawmakers, jeopardizes not just the savings of ordinary citizens but also testifies to the lack of supervision and control within the country’s banking system. If these banks fail, it would be catastrophic.

The results of a breakdown in financial institutions would be to further destabilize the economy of Somalia, which already remains nascent after years of conflict.

This will also further entrench public distrust in the government and the financial sector, thereby making the attraction of much-needed investment for long-term recovery and development even more difficult.

A Controversial Election Funding Plan

Accusations that the government intends to use money generated by the land sales to finance a controversial one-person, one-vote election add to the controversy.

The political consensus on this issue has not been achieved yet, and there are many questions about the practicality of this initiative, reportedly leading international donors to refuse support for it.

Critics say such an approach in election financing sets a very dangerous precedent, as large tracts of public land get privatized to serve a political interest. In fact, the approach is detrimental to principles of transparency and accountability and runs a risk of increasing political polarization.

And to think this would be occurring in a country where confidence in the government institutions was already at an all-time low. Perceived funding of elections through selling public lands can’t help but reduce further what little confidence citizens currently have in a democratic process.

Government Denials and Public Distrust

Government officials, however, denied these claims and described them as “unfounded and politically motivated.” These land sales are part of an overall economic strategy, they explained.

Yet, the opacity of the transactions has only increased public skepticism. Without transparent mechanisms to ensure that funds are utilized for their intended purpose, the potential for embezzlement and mismanagement will remain high.

While declining to engage all these issues, the government reaction has only allowed the crisis to worsen. Unless the current administration provides a reasonable and credible explanation of its actions, it risks alienating not just its compatriots but also the very international partners whose assistance is essential for Somalia’s recovery.

This means the international community is responsible for this crisis. The donor countries and organizations should push the government of Somalia to freeze the sale of public lands until such time as an appropriate and transparent system is set up.

This means making sure land deals are conducted within the rule of law, adequate compensation to the concerned communities, and money obtained from them used for projects that have value for its people.

Equally significant would be the commitment on the part of international partners to technical and financial support for strengthening the financial sector in Somalia, along with enhancing oversight mechanisms, which would hopefully prevent the type of irresponsible behavior that put Somali banks at risk and jeopardized ordinary citizens’ savings.

A Frightening Crossroads for Somalia

Somalia is at a crossroads. The choices made today will determine the course of the country for the next several decades. In prioritizing short-term gains over long-term stability, the government risks squandering a rare opportunity to rebuild a nation that has endured so much.

Selling off public lands may appear an easy solution, but it is a perilous gamble that could widen inequality, undermine public trust, and pave the way for oligarchic rule anew.

The time to act is now. Somalia’s leaders must put the interests of their citizens above the ambitions of a favored few. The international community must hold them accountable.

This means Somalians need to keep demanding for transparency, justice, and their rightful share in all their country’s resources. Only then can Somalia have any real hope of true stability and prosperity.

–

Abdirahman Jeylani Mohamed, Foreign Policy Journalist and Communications Specialist

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In a joint statement issued today, the three leaders accused the government of breaching constitutional and legal provisions by auctioning public property.

In Mogadishu, enforced evictions persist as internally displaced persons (IDPs) and vulnerable families are removed from public lands, which are then sold to wealthy businessmen.

Cash proceeds from these transactions are directly received by President Hassan Sheikh and his immediate family, including his two wives and children, as collaborated by various sources.

Among the sites affected by these sales include former military camps, a public cemetery, schools and several abandoned government ministry buildings, leaving displaced residents in dire circumstances.

President Sharif, former Prime Minister Khaire, and MP Abdishakur stated that the evictions of the vulnerable communities were conducted in order for the president Mohamud to sell the land or pay back his political allies.

The leaders stressed that Hassan Sheikh’s administration has disregarded key legal frameworks established to protect public lands, including:

• Articles 26 and 43 of the Constitution, which require the government to develop a national policy for public assets.
• Articles 50 and 51 of the Public Financial Management Act (2019), which govern the management of public property.
• Articles 87, 681, 723, and 730 of the Somali Civil Code (1973), regulating the use and alteration of public property.
• Law No. 41 on Urban Land Distribution (1973), which prohibits the sale of public lands without explicit legal authorization.

The leaders also accused the government of undermining key principles such as equitable access to land resources, proper land ownership registration, and protections against the exploitation of smallholders in the real estate market.

Warning to Buyers

The opposition leaders issued a stern warning to individuals and businesses involved in these illegal land transactions.

They emphasized that such deals are null and void and that participants could face serious legal consequences under both national and international law.

They highlighted four critical points:

1. Public land ownership cannot be acquired without adhering to constitutional and legal processes.
2. Only lawful procedures can grant ownership of government property.
3. Anyone involved in illegal transactions is complicit in national plunder and will be subject to legal action.
4. Accountability measures will apply to all parties implicated in the illegal sale, purchase, or transfer of public lands.

The leaders concluded by urging the public to resist efforts to privatize public assets unlawfully and called for the strict enforcement of legal protections for public property.

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Students like Binti Abshir fondly recall his dedication and intellect as ‘tireless instructor’.

But in 2020, Ismail chose a different path, joining Danab, Somalia’s elite U.S.-trained military force.

With intense and rigorous training, 27-year-old Ismail took part in numerous high-risk operations targeting Al-Shabaab strongholds in Lower Shabelle, Middle Shabelle, and Hiiraan regions.

One particularly daring raid in September 2022 saw Danab commandos eliminate 11 Al-Shabaab militants during an overnight operation in Buq Aqable, Hiiraan Province.

Despite the ever-present dangers, Ismail remained steadfast. However, tragedy struck in January 2023 during a dawn raid in Gal’ad District, central Somalia, when Major Hassan Mohamed Osman (Hassan Tuure), Danab’s deputy commander and Ismail’s close ally, was killed.

The two had worked side by side on critical operations, often coordinating efforts with U.S. advisors on the ground.

Ismail himself narrowly escaped death during a 2022 operation in Lower Shabelle when militants detonated an IED, leaving him critically injured. Yet, his resilience never wavered.

In February 2024, Ismail and his comrades secured Jowhar airport, a region heavily influenced by Al-Shabaab, after the U.S. Embassy in Mogadishu and Somalia’s federal government signed a $100 million Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to construct five military bases for Danab, before it was put on hold.

These bases were meant to recruit, train, and equip 3,000 soldiers from across Somalia, building a sustainable light infantry capability within the Somali National Army (SNA).

However, by September 2024, Ismail’s service had taken a toll.

Months of unpaid wages, inadequate food, lack of healthcare, and the denial of his promotion due to corruption and nepotism left him disillusioned.

“It was time to quit,” said a family member, noting Ismail’s frustration with a military he had once served with pride.

Food rations suspended 

In April 2024, the United States suspended food rations for Danab following a corruption scandal. An investigation revealed that food and fuel meant for Danab had been resold on the black market.

Companies linked to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s family were implicated in these contracts.

This scandal left soldiers like Ismail struggling to survive.

“Even after leaving the army, Ismail feared staying in Mogadishu,” a family member shared. “Militants could hunt him down, and government officials unhappy with his decision might target him.”

Corruption within Somalia’s military remains a significant obstacle, undermining professionalism and morale.

Soldiers frequently report that promotions are determined by clan affiliations or political connections rather than merit.

Additionally, the inclusion of recruits without thorough background checks has further compromised the military’s integrity.

Hoping to reach Europe 

With no viable options, Ismail sold his pistol—his last valuable possession—and used the funds, along with help from friends, to flee Somalia.

In late September 2024, he embarked on a dangerous journey facilitated by merciless human traffickers through Ethiopia, Sudan, and the Libyan desert, hoping to reach Europe.

However, the journey turned tragic. While trekking through the Libyan desert in December, Ismail’s group was ambushed by robbers who stole their food and water. His previous injuries worsened, and he contracted severe diarrhea.

Left behind by his group, Ismail succumbed to illness and dehydration in December 20.

Friends and colleagues expressed their grief on social media.

“Ismail was an officer oppressed by his own country. May God give him his reward in Jannah,” wrote Nur Mohamud.

Mohamud Abdi stated: “We belong to Allah and to Him we shall return. A young man with pride has his life cut short. O Allah, forgive him and have mercy on him, honor his abode, and expand his entrance.”

The Somali defence ministry declined to comment on Ismail’s case.

Corruption, nepotism, and the absence of accountability continue to undermine Somalia’s security and erode trust, even within elite units like Danab.

Unless the lack of accountability at the highest levels of leadership is addressed, the sacrifices of soldiers like Ismail Moalim Buule will go unrecognized, and the cycle of inefficiency and neglect will persist, further jeopardizing the country’s stability.

The post Ismail Buule: The Tragic End of a U.S.-Trained Somali Soldier’s Life in the Libyan Desert appeared first on Kaab TV.

For months, their disagreements had remained hidden from the public, but by the week’s end, their feud had become impossible to contain.

At the center of their conflict were lucrative oil and gas exploration contracts, involving millions of dollars and foreign companies, including entities from Turkey.

President Mohamud accused Abdirisak of misappropriating funds from these deals, alleging that over $10 million received in 2022 and $8 million in 2023 were mishandled.

While Abdirisak did not deny the accusations, sources close to the president revealed that he had initially shared a portion of the proceeds with Mohamud but later began keeping the funds for himself – mostly in overseas bank accounts.

Efforts to mediate the crisis were spearheaded by Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre and other key figures, including Minister of Planning Mohamud Beene Beene.

Both sought a resolution that would preserve the relationship between the two men. However, President Mohamud was unyielding, insisting that Abdirisak, who is also a Member of Parliament from the Hiiraan region, be removed from his cabinet post as punishment for what he viewed as betrayal.

By early Sunday, President Mohamud instructed the prime minister to announce a cabinet reshuffle. By midday, Abdirisak’s dismissal was formalized, marking the end of his tenure as Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources.

Mini reshuffle

The reshuffle brought significant changes. Abdirisak was replaced by Dahir Shire Mohamed, who now oversees the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources.

General Bashir Mohamed Jama (Goobe), who faced criticism during his time as Minister of Women and Human Rights, was reassigned as Minister of Environment and Climate Change.

Meanwhile, Khadija Al-Makhsumi, a Member of Parliament and the wife of Abdikarin Hussein Guled, a close associate of president Mohamud, was appointed as Minister of Family and Human Rights.

Following his dismissal, Abdirisak issued a statement on social media, citing differences with the government over addressing grievances in Hiiraan and tensions with the HirShabelle administration.

“People may wonder why my dismissal occurred now, despite my close ties with the President. The decision stems from disagreements on resolving the longstanding grievances of the people of Hiiraan toward HirShabelle’s leadership,” he wrote.

Abdirisak also referenced unresolved disputes dating back to HirShabelle’s formation, including the designation of its capital and parliamentary representation.

The end of the political journey

Abdirisak’s political journey is closely tied to President Mohamud. A Somali-Canadian and a former taxi driver from Ottawa, Canada, he rose to prominence as one of Mohamud’s most trusted allies.

He first served in president Mohamud’s cabinet as Minister of Security during the 2012–2016 term.

Their relationship was not built on educational or professional connections but on familial ties—Abdirisak comes from the family of president Mohamud’s mother.

When Mohamud returned to office in May 2022, Abdirisak secured the petroleum ministry after reportedly promising to share the profits from oil and gas contracts with the president.

Allegations suggest that Mohamud’s first wife was also involved in managing these deals.

Now, with their alliance fractured and Abdirisak removed, questions linger over what will become of the millions of dollars allegedly lost.

In Somalia, corruption rarely leads to accountability. Instead, power dynamics shift, and the cycle continues.

For the new Minister of Petroleum, Dahir Shire Mohamed, the message is clear: any future funds must be fully surrendered to the president and his influential first lady.

As for Abdirisak, only time will tell whether this marks the end of his political career or merely a temporary setback.

For now, his fall from grace serves as another reminder of the pervasive corruption that continues to define Somali politics.

The post Hassan Sheikh Sacks Longtime Ally Abdirisak Omar Mohamed: Here’s Why appeared first on Kaab TV.